The Poeticians are a spoken word collective based out of the neighborhood of Point Breeze in South Philadelphia. The group is composed of young poets, rappers, and visionaries, who are passionate about making their voices heard and bringing about change in the turbulent world that we live in. The Poeticians meet biweekly to talk life philosophies and current events, write and revise poetry, and create spoken word performances that convey their life experiences, dreams, and beliefs. They host bimonthly open mics out of the Pharmacy coffee shop in South Philadelphia; these open mics are known for their emphasis on collaboration, inclusion, and mutual support. Anybody is welcome to participate in the writing workshop that takes place before the open mic, and many attendees find themselves performing on stage for the first time, encouraged by the relaxed, supportive atmosphere.

The Poeticians are a spoken word collective based out of the neighborhood of Point Breeze in South Philadelphia. The group is composed of young poets, rappers, and visionaries, who are passionate about making their voices heard and bringing about change in the turbulent world that we live in. Issues of particular relevance to the group include the need for an improved public education system, the impacts of police brutality and a biased criminal justice system on people of color in America, poverty, gentrification – as well as the quest to live freely and embrace one’s identity joyfully, the day-to-day pleasures of music, food, and good conversation… and, of course, love. The Poeticians meet biweekly to talk life philosophies and current events, write and revise poetry, and create spoken word performances that convey their life experiences, dreams, and beliefs. They host bimonthly open mics out of the Pharmacy coffee shop; these open mics are known for their emphasis on collaboration, inclusion, and mutual support. Anybody is welcome to participate in the writing workshop that takes place before the open mic, and many attendees find themselves performing on stage for the first time, encouraged by the relaxed, supportive atmosphere.